Cape Town – A South African truck driver has reportedly expressed his fear that next time he might be killed after his truck was set on fire following an incident on the N2 in KwaZulu-Natal.
“Next time when I drive the truck they are going to come and shoot us because they show us that they have their guns. And our company doesn’t allow us to go with guns on the trucks. So, the government has to prove themselves and hear what the people of South Africa are saying,” EWN quoted the driver, who wished to remain anonymous, as saying.
He recounted that gunshots were fired and a rock was thrown at his truck before a pepper spray canister was thrown inside, causing him partial loss of sight as he fled.
He expressed deep concern for his safety and the future of the industry, saying that he felt scared and saw no future for himself in the trucking industry.
Meanwhile, the All Truck Drivers Foundation distanced itself from the violence, with the chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Siphiwe Sebeta, suggesting that the attacks may be related to the hiring of foreign national truck drivers.
ALSO READ | Truck attacks: 2 men arrested, suspected dashcam arsonist among those caught
Since Saturday, a total of 21 trucks have been set on fire in different provinces of South Africa.
Police confirmed on Friday that a third suspect had been arrested in connection with the attacks.
“Police can confirm that the number of suspects arrested in relation to the torching has risen to three. A third suspect was arrested in Emalahleni in Mpumalanga last night.
“All suspects, including the two truck drivers that were arrested on Thursday, are expected to appear before the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court on a charge of malicious damage to property,” Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
He added:
“Police are on the heels for more suspects which involve the rig leaders of these sporadic incidents. We continue with our high-density operations through roadblocks, stop and searching and tracing operations of these wanted suspects.”
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
